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64 Best Books About Travel And Adventure To Spark Wanderlust

Nomadic Retirement Travel Disclaimer

Feed your wanderlust with the best books about travel and adventure! A curated list of must-reads for explorers, dreamers, and adventurers alike.

One of the best ways to spark (or get over a case of wanderlust) is to read inspirational travel books. They can take you to amazing places you’d never dream of visiting and give you a glimpse into different cultures. They offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration, and can be a great way to get excited about upcoming trips. They can also provide a sense of comfort and familiarity while travelling to new places.

I have always loved reading and spend many hours with my nose in a book about travel dreaming of exotic locations, tropical destinations and experiencing a city through the eyes of a local. Even now we are nomadic retirees, it is still one of my favourite things to do, and you will very rarely find me without a book nearby. They are the perfect companion of any traveller, as they help pass the time during long bus, train or plane rides.

Here we share with you our 64 favourite travel adventure books to inspire wanderlust that will leave you wanting to travel to far-off destinations. From books for the adventure seekers to culture vultures to history buffs, these books about travelling will have you planning your next trip in no time!

Our Top Tip: These great travel books make for perfect Christmas gifts for the travel lovers in your life!

Why Read Books About Wanderlust?

Reading good books about travel is a great way to get inspired for your next vacation. Not only do they provide great tips on where to go and what to do, but they also help you to imagine yourself on those exotic beaches or inside ancient ruins. Just like a great movie, a fantastic travel book allows you to immerse yourself in the writers’ words and let your fantasies run free.

In addition, reading books also offers many health benefits such as stress relief, provides mental stimulation and is proven to improve your memory. Reading a good book also promotes creativity.

Books are a popular tool for self-discovery. Although we carry them with us, they do so not just when we go out into the world, but as we move through life. A magnificent book has the ability to alter our life forever.

Best Travel Books To Read If You Love To Travel

There are millions of books about world travel out there for purchase in bookstores, but some are more deserving of being read than others! We do not claim to have read all books about traveling the world, but we have read quite a few, and these are the ones we can personally recommend. We will be adding to this list of the best books about travel as we continue to discover new favourites, so save the link to this page somewhere handy…

So, get your Kindle ready and start downloading today!

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A must read for any wanderlust enthusiast! The book is a comprehensive list of the best places to see in the world and is perfect for those looking to explore new places. From ancient ruins to stunning natural wonders, the list has something for everyone. This book provides a wealth of information on each location including helpful tips on how to plan a trip and what to expect when you get there.

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This book is a compilation of food adventures from all over the world. Each story is accompanied by mouth-watering photos, making it easy to feel like you’re right there with George, tasting everything himself. Whether he’s sampling local delicacies in Thailand or savouring a classic dish in Italy, George brings readers on an appetizing journey around the globe. His contagious enthusiasm for food and travel is sure to inspire any reader to hit the road and explore new cultures.

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If you’re looking for a travel book to inspire your next big adventure, check out Alone Against the North by Adam Shoalts. In this book, Shoalts recounts his journey on foot and by canoe through the most remote and treacherous regions of Canada’s Arctic. He battled harsh weather conditions, dangerous wildlife, and challenging terrain to become the first person ever to cross the Arctic from east to west. This is an awe-inspiring story of courage and determination that will make you want to explore the world’s most remote corners.

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Ishmael Beah’s A Long Way Gone tells the story of a young boy, Ishmael, who is forced to become a child soldier in Sierra Leone. The book is harrowing and heartbreaking, but also eye-opening and informative. It provides a unique perspective on the realities of war and its effects on children. Beah’s experiences are truly harrowing, but he manages to tell his story in a way that is both informative and compelling.

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This novel depicts the gripping tale of the Jewish struggle for survival in the wake of the Holocaust. Spanning several decades, the story follows a cast of characters as they fight to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of genocide.

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The Hindu Kush is a mountain range in Afghanistan that extends into Pakistan. Eric Newby, a British traveller, hiked through the Hindu Kush in the 1950s beginning in Kabul, Afghanistan. He and his companions make their way through the mountains, where they are met with difficult terrain and challenging weather conditions. Along the way, they encounter snow drifts, treacherous slopes, and hostile locals. Despite these obstacles, Newby manages to find beauty in the landscape and hilarity in the most dangerous situations.

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If you’re looking for a great book to inspire your next outdoor adventure, look no further than A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson. In this hilarious and informative account of his attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail, Bryson brings to life all of the challenges and rewards of spending time in nature. From dealing with blisters and bears to enjoying the simple pleasure of a good night’s sleep under the stars, Bryson makes it easy to see why hiking can be so addictive.

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If you’re looking for a good book to inspire your next trip, Jess Walter’s Beautiful Ruins is a great option. The novel follows the intersecting lives of a cast of characters in both contemporary and historical settings, all drawn together by the doomed romance of an American starlet and a young Italian innkeeper. With its colourful descriptions of both the natural and man-made beauty of Italy, the book will have you longing for your own vacation. And if that’s not incentive enough, consider this: Walter himself travelled extensively in Italy while researching the book, so you can be sure the setting is spot-on.

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Nirmal “Nimsdai” Purja is the first man to climb all 14 of the 8000 metre Death Zone Peaks in the world, and he did this in less than 7 months. The book talks about his early life in Nepal, then as a Gurkha in the UK Special Forces, and eventually how the Beyond Possible project came into being. He also showcases how the traditional Nepalese Sherpas have been doing the impossible for decades.

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In Blue Highways: A Journey into America, William Least Heat-Moon sets out on a journey around America in a van he names Ghostrider. He takes the backroads, visiting small towns and getting to know the people who live there. What he finds is a country that is diverse and fascinating, with kind, generous people who are happy to share their stories. This is a beautifully written book that will make you want to hit the open road and explore America for yourself.

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This book is written Stephan Ort, a German backpacker who travelled around Iran independently using Couchsurfing. Through his personal experiences we learn about how kind and welcoming Iranian people are and how safe Iran is for travelling.

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If you’re looking for a good read to fuel your travel fantasies, look no further than Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan. The novel follows the lives of Singapore’s ultra-wealthy elite, and is full of opulent details about their extravagant lifestyles. Whether it’s descriptions of multimillion-dollar yachts or shopping sprees at the world’s most exclusive stores, this book is sure to make you itch to explore some of the most glamorous destinations on earth.

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In Dark Star Safari, Paul Theroux takes a long journey from Cairo to Cape Town, recounting the people and places he encounters along the way. This book is full of colourful characters and interesting anecdotes, providing a unique glimpse into African culture. Theroux’s descriptions are vivid and engaging, making for a very enjoyable read. He has a knack for finding the humour in even the most dire situations, which makes “Dark Star Safari” an entertaining and informative travelogue.

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Dave Barry, humour columnist for the Miami Herald and author of many non fiction books about travel, knows how to make the most of his trips. Barry’s book is based on his two-week trip to Japan in 1991 with his wife and two young sons. The family travelled all over the country, from Tokyo to Mount Fuji to Kyoto. They experienced everything from a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) to a Japanese baseball game. Barry’s observations about Japan are both funny and insightful. He points out that the Japanese are very punctual, but they also have a great sense of humour. He remarks on the country’s strange food (octopus balls anyone?) as well as its beautiful scenery.

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Desert Solitaire is a wilderness classic by Edward Abbey, a renowned conservationist and prolific writer, considered to be a modern Thoreau. The book is autobiographical in nature and documents his experience in southwestern American backcountry, a solo travel experience in which he laments about the increase of technology and people in natural places. This is coupled with the very real trials of survival and travel to make for a fascinating and inspiring read for those looking to find solitude in nature.

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Gilbert takes the reader on her journey as she travels the world in search of self-discovery. She eats her way through Italy, prays in an Indian ashram, and finally finds love in Indonesia. Her experiences are narrated in a way that’s both engaging and entertaining, making it a great choice for any traveller looking for a good read.

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Rick Steves is your guide to a more authentic and affordable European vacation. Drawing on his own experiences traveling around Europe “backward”, starting in Eastern Europe and making his way west, Steves offers invaluable advice for those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist destinations. With wit and wisdom, Steves shows how easy it is (and how much more rewarding) to travel like a local, avoiding costly and time-consuming mistakes along the way.

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If you’re looking to jump on a plane and explore a new destination, Leon Uris’ Exodus will get your blood pumping. The novel is based on the true story of how the State of Israel was created, and it’s full of intense action and adventure. You’ll feel like you’re right there in the middle of the conflict, dodging bullets and fighting for your life.

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Dervla Murphy’s “Full Tilt” is an account of her journey in 1963 cycling from the coast of Ireland to the borders of Russia and beyond. Murphy is a veteran traveller and her experiences on this trip are both harrowing and humorous. She faces all sorts of obstacles including snowstorms, thieves, and dangerous drivers, but she also has some amazing adventures, like camping on a glacier and being invited into a Mongolian yurt.

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For Alastair Humphreys, it’s all about grand adventures. From crossing Antarctica on foot to cycling across India, Humphreys has experienced some of the most extreme challenges and landscapes on Earth. He shares these thrilling tales with readers and offers advice for anyone looking to embark on their own extraordinary journey. He also reflects on the importance of taking risks and pushing boundaries in order to live a fuller life.

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There’s something about hidden places that just makes them all the more alluring. Maybe it’s the mystery or the sense of adventure, but whatever it is, hidden places tend to capture our imaginations. Baxter takes readers on a journey to some of the most remote and off-the-beaten-path destinations in the world. From Easter Island to Tibet to Patagonia, Baxter highlights some of the most stunning and little-known corners of the globe. It’s full of gorgeous photos and fascinating insights into these far-flung destinations.

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Bryson is a master of comic observation, and his descriptions of the absurdities he encounters on his travels Down Under in Australia are hilarious. From kangaroos that hop along the side of the road to giant spiders that live in people’s toilets, Bryson brings all of Australia’s quirks to life. But In a Sunburned Country is more than just a funny travelogue. Bryson is also a gifted historian, and he uses his journey as an opportunity to explore Australia’s rich and complex past. He delves into the country’s Aboriginal heritage, its convict history, and its role in World War II.

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This true story follows Chris McCandless as he abandons his material possessions and sets out on a journey into the Alaskan wilderness. What starts as an adventure soon turns into a fight for survival as McCandless faces the elements head-on. This book is sure to get your heart racing and have you itching to explore the great outdoors.

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In the 1990s, climber and journalist John Krakauer (also author of Into the Wild) attempted to summit Mount Everest, one of the most treacherous mountain peaks in the world. Krakauer’s account is harrowing and heartbreaking, as he describes the many obstacles climbers face on their way to the top of Everest, including altitude sickness, frostbite, and deadly avalanches. Ultimately, eight climbers died during Krakauer’s ascent, making it one of the deadliest years on Everest. But “Into Thin Air” is more than a mere chronicle of a deadly climb: it’s a meditation on risk, fear, and obsession. At what point do we push ourselves too far? Is there such a thing as “safe” adventure? And what happens when our bravest intentions lead to disaster?

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Harris’ Lands of Lost Borders is an ode to the Silk Road, a trade route that spanned more than 4,000 miles and connected East and West for centuries. She embarks on a journey along the ancient route, tracing its steps from China to Turkey. Her vivid descriptions of the people and places she encounters make for an engaging read, and her reflections on the nature of travel provide thoughtful insights into the allure of exploration.

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This book needs no introduction, and while it may seem to fall into the category of history books, it is an important and enjoyable read. Each chapter gives you great insight into South Africa and into one of the world’s greatest icons, Nelson Mandela. From his humble start in life as a goatherd in rural South Africa to his remarkable rise to the first democratically elected President of South Africa, it is a story of hope and inspiration and one of the greatest memoirs of our time. Mandela was incredibly wise and amazingly forgiving and this, the story of his life, written by him, gives one a glimpse into this great man’s mind and an overview of the dark history of Apartheid.

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Motorcycle enthusiasts will enjoy Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman’s Long Way Down: An Epic Journey by Motorcycle from Scotland to South Africa. The two men overland through 18 countries, taking on an epic journey from the top of Europe to the bottom of Africa in 2007. Along the way, they experience different cultures, stunning scenery, and plenty of excitement.

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Less is a novel about Arthur Less, a 49-year-old man who has been recently divorced and is coping with the news that his former husband has married someone else. To get away from the drama of his personal life, Arthur decides to take a trip to Europe. The trip does not go as planned and Arthur finds himself in one embarrassing situation after another. Despite all of the mishaps, Arthur learns a great deal about himself and comes to terms with his past. He also finds new love interests along the way. Overall, Less is a funny and heartfelt novel about one man’s journey to find himself.

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Chocolate is a magical substance and has the ability to make people happy, to soothe emotions, and to provide a temporary escape from the troubles of the world. In Esquivel’s novel Like Water for Chocolate, chocolate plays an important role in the lives of the characters. Tita, the main character, uses her cooking skills to create dishes that express her emotions and connect her with those she loves. Her chocolate Mexican mole sauce is so delicious that it can make people feel happy and loved just by eating it.

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Love, Africa is a memoir by Jeffrey Gettleman that chronicles his time spent in Africa as a foreign correspondent. The book covers everything from his first love affair in Africa to the civil wars he reported on. Gettleman provides an interesting and unique perspective on the people and cultures of Africa, and he offers readers a glimpse into the realities of life there. Love, Africa is an enjoyable read for anyone interested in travel or African culture, and it provides a unique window into the world’s most misunderstood continent.

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If you’re in the market for a travelogue that will both inspire and terrify you, look no further than Torre DeRoche’s Love with a Chance of Drowning. The book recounts her adventures (and misadventures) as she travels the world with her husband, all the while battling fear of water and an ever-present sense of danger. From white-water rafting in Uganda to swimming with sharks in Australia, DeRoche takes us on a wild ride that is both exhilarating and terrifying.

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Anthony Bourdain’s Medium Raw is a collection of essays about the food industry, travel, and his personal life. The book is engaging and provides insights into the author’s thoughts on food, cooking, and eating. Bourdain has a unique perspective on food and he shares some interesting stories in “Medium Raw.”

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The story transports readers to Japan in the 1920s, where they experience the traditions and culture of the geisha lifestyle. The novel follows the life of a geisha girl, starting from her childhood all the way to her retirement. It provides an in-depth look at the geisha lifestyle and customs, giving readers a unique perspective on Japanese history and society.

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Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt is a non-fiction book about a murder that occurred in Savannah, Georgia. The book is written in a journalistic style which makes it an interesting read. The author does a great job of painting a picture of Savannah and its inhabitants.

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Set against the colourful backdrop of pre-revolutionary Cuba, Next Year in Havana tells the story of two families divided by circumstance and their quest for reunification. Cleeton skilfully brings to life the beauty and magic of Cuba before its revolution.

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This novel takes the reader on a journey through the history of the Buendiá family in the town of Macondo in Colombia. With colourful characters and beautiful descriptions of the landscape, this novel is sure to transport you to another world.

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On the Road is a novel by Jack Kerouac that follows the adventures of Sal Paradise (one of Kerouac’s alter-egos) and Dean Moriarty as they travel across America. The book is considered a defining work of the Beat Generation and has been praised for its depiction of American culture. On the Road was published in 1957 and was met with mixed reviews. However, it soon became a cult classic and has been cited as one of the best books on travel of all time.

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Paris, by Edward Rutherfurd, tells the story of Paris from its earliest days to the present. The book is a mixture of history and fiction, and it includes stories about famous people who have lived in Paris, as well as everyday people. Rutherfurd offers a unique perspective on Parisian history, and he brings the city to life in a way that no other author has been able to do.

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At just 21 years old, Prior-Palmer set out to circumnavigate the globe on her horse, and the resulting book is an adventure story unlike any other. From dodging charging rhinos in Africa to crossing frozen rivers in Siberia, Prior-Palmer’s journey is packed with hair-raising escapades and breathtaking scenery. Her descriptions of the people and places she encounters along the way are so vivid that you’ll feel like you’re right there with her – sometimes terrified, but always exhilarated.

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The idea for this trip by Tony Hawk came to him after he won a bet that he couldn’t hitchhike around the country with a refrigerator. He ends up getting help from many people along the way including Irish celebrities such as Bono and Liam Neeson. The book is full of humour and interesting anecdotes about Hawks’ journey.

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It’s no wonder that Shantaram has been on the New York Times best seller list for over two years: with its fascinating, epic tale of a fugitive Australian bank robber who escapes to India, it’s the perfect book for armchair travellers and wanderers alike. The novel is based on the real-life experiences of author Gregory David Roberts who spent ten years living in the slums of Mumbai. Shantaram is a gripping read, but it’s also a great source of travel inspiration.

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Simon Reeve has a knack for taking the reader on an unforgettable journey, whether it be through his eyes or by recounting the tales of others. This book is a compilation of the author’s many travels, and it’s filled with stories and advice that will have you packing your bags and hitting the road in no time. Reeve offers up plenty of practical tips for would-be travellers, but his stories are what make this book special. You’ll feel like you’re right there alongside him as he treks across the globe, encountering everything from tigers to terrorists along the way.

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Stranger on a Train is a book about a woman who takes a trip to see her estranged mother and sister. The woman is not happy with her life and is looking for a way to escape. She meets a man on the train who tells her about his travels. The woman decides to follow his advice and take advantage of the opportunities that come her way travelling across the United States by Amtrak. She eventually finds happiness in her new life.

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Rita Golden Gelman is a traveller, author, and world citizen who has embraced a life of continuous journey. A nomad since childhood, she has lived in more than eighty countries on six continents, learning the local language and customs as she goes. In Tales of a Female Nomad, Gelman shares her experiences living as an outsider, and sometimes an outlaw, in some of the most exotic and dangerous places on earth.

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Coelho’s masterpiece is a reflection on the simple joys of life and the importance of listening to one’s heart and following your dreams. The Alchemist tells the story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure as extravagant as any ever found. From his home in Spain he journeys to the exotic markets of North Africa and on to the Egyptian desert, where a fateful encounter with a mysterious old woman teaches him that true wealth lies within. Santiago then embarks on a magnificent odyssey that spans years and takes him from his homeland to the land of pyramids and oracles.

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John Harris’ “The Backpacker” is a compilation of essays detailing the author’s many adventures as a backpacker. Harris offers readers an insider’s view of his experiences, ranging from his trips through Europe and Asia to his sojourns in Africa and South America. What makes “The Backpacker” unique is that Harris doesn’t just provide a glimpse into the countries he visits, but also delves into the history and culture of the regions he explores.

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Besides The Alchemist, this is my favourite travel book. In The Beach, a group of young backpackers discovers a hidden paradise on an uncharted island. With its stunning beaches and lush jungle, the island seems like the perfect place to escape the rat race. But as the group begins to explore, they realize that there’s something dark and dangerous lurking beneath the surface. I would describe The Beach as a thriller, not a romance novel, so if you’re looking for a light read, this isn’t it. However, if you’re looking for an exciting adventure story that will take your breath away, then The Beach is definitely worth reading.

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Shah spent a year living in the home of a caliph in Casablanca, and the resulting book is an enchanting mixture of travelogue and personal memoir. Although it’s not your average travelogue, as Shah doesn’t spend his time visiting tourist hotspots, The Caliph’s House is nonetheless full of fascinating insights into Moroccan culture.

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In The Dharma Bums, Jack Kerouac tells the story of his adventures with Neal Cassady and their shared love of hiking and camping in the American West. Kerouac’s descriptions of the landscapes he encounters are lyrical and evocative, and he also provides insights into the spiritual side of hiking and camping. The Dharma Bums is a must-read for anyone who loves nature and wants to explore the spiritual side of travel.

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Weiner’s book is a great read for anyone looking to explore the concept of happiness and what it means to different people around the world. As he travels to various countries, Weiner interviews locals about their idea of happiness and what makes them content in life. What he finds is that while the understanding of happiness may vary from country to country, the idea of seeking out pleasure and experiences is a common thread throughout all cultures. Weiner’s journey takes him to some stunning locations, and his writing makes it easy for readers to feel as though they are right there alongside him exploring these new places. He weaves in personal anecdotes about his own journey towards finding bliss, making for an engaging and entertaining read.

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The Great Railway Bazaar is a travel book by Paul Theroux, published in 1972. The book follows Theroux’s journey by train from London to Japan and back. Along the way, he visits a variety of destinations in Europe, the Middle East, India, and Southeast Asia. Theroux’s journey is full of adventures, both on and off the train. He has close calls with bandits in Iran and Pakistan, gets lost in the Thai jungle, and is even arrested as a spy in Malaysia. But he also experiences the beauty and culture of the places he visits, from the ancient ruins of Persepolis to the temples of Angkor Wat.

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The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows is a novel set in the aftermath of World War II. It tells the story of a group of friends who form a literary society on the island of Guernsey, which is under Nazi occupation. The society helps to keep the spirit of life alive during these difficult times.

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The Hand of Fatima, a novel by Ildefonso Falcones, is set in the year 711 in the South of Spain and tells the story of a young girl who is married off to a Muslim man and must learn to navigate the customs and expectations of her new life. The book opens with Caliph Abd al-Rahman II’s announcement that all Christians living in his territory must convert to Islam or leave or be put to death. Martina, the heroine of the story, chooses to stay and convert in order to save her family. Her new husband is understanding and tolerant of her beliefs, but she faces many challenges as she tries to adapt to her new home. One of the biggest challenges is learning how to read and write in Arabic; until then, she has been illiterate.

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The Lost City of Z is a compelling story about British explorer Percy Fawcett who disappeared in the Amazon in 1925. Author David Grann delves into the history of Fawcett and the mystery surrounding his disappearance. The book takes you into the jungle, where Fawcett and his team are searching for a mysterious city that he believed to be sunken in the Amazon. It’s a beautifully written book about exploration, danger, and the madness of explorers.

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This book tells the story of Rory Stewart’s walk across Afghanistan in the days immediately following 9/11. It’s an inspiring account of one man’s journey and his interactions with the local people. It’s full of rich detail and offers a unique perspective on a country that is often in the news.

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56. The Wrong Way Home by Peter Moore

In The Wrong Way Home, Moore takes readers on a journey around the world, recounting his many misadventures along the way. From getting lost in the Amazon rainforest to almost dying of thirst in the Sahara Desert, Moore’s tales are sure to get your heart racing and your feet itching to hit the road.

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Journalist Helen Russell moved to Denmark with her husband, and in her book she documents all the interesting quirks and customs of Danish life. From learning how to cope with long winters to discovering the secrets of hygge, Russell provides a charming and insightful look at Scandinavian culture. Her book is the perfect read for anyone who loves Denmark, or is curious about Danish life.

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In the book, Touching the Void, Joe Simpson tells the story of his and Simon Yates’ disastrous attempt to climb the unclimbed West Face of Siula Grande in the Peruvian Andes. The pair reached the summit but were descending in bad weather when Simpson fell and broke his leg. With little equipment and no hope of rescue, Yates was forced to lower Simpson down the mountain, a journey that took three days and two nights. In spite of his injury, Simpson made it to safety but Yates was never seen again. Touching the Void is a gripping account of one man’s will to survive against all odds.

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In Travels with Herodotus, Kapuscinski recounts his own travels and reflections inspired by the ancient Greek historian Herodotus. Kapuscinski was struck by Herodotus’ ability to see the world from different perspectives, and to empathize with people of all cultures. For Kapuscinski, this was the mark of a great writer and thinker. Kapuscinski’s own travels take him to Africa, Asia, and Latin America, where he witnesses wars, revolutions, and coups. He also meets ordinary people who are living through extraordinary times.

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The book tells the story of Hiram Bingham III, a Yale professor who “discovered” Machu Picchu in 1911 and brought it to the world’s attention. Adams does an excellent job of weaving together Bingham’s story with his own journey to Machu Picchu, providing readers with a detailed and personal account of one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.

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This book is a celebration of all things Italian! The book takes the reader on a journey through Tuscany, describing the landscape, the food, and the culture in detail. It’s an enjoyable read that will make you eager to experience Italy firsthand.

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This is one of the best books for travel and is all about slow travelling and really seeing the world. It isn’t about rushing from one destination to another or packing in as many tourist attractions as possible. Instead, it encourages readers to slow down, live a life less ordinary, and explore all that the world has to offer. Potts provides useful tips for those looking to vagabond such as how to save money on travel, how to make the most of your time away from home, and how to find work opportunities abroad.

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White Tiger tells the story of Balram Halwai, a poor boy from the dark side of India’s society who becomes a chauffeur for a wealthy family. Through Balram’s eyes, we see the fascinating and brutal world of modern India. This one is a real page turner!

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Cheryl Strayed tells the story of her 1100 mile solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail. Interspersed with flashbacks to her difficult childhood and personal struggles, Strayed provides readers with rich detail about the people and places she encounters during her hike. She also shares hard-won wisdom about life and relationships.

FAQs: Best Books for Travel Lovers

Now that you have explored some of our favourite books about travel and adventure, you might still have a few questions. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are some frequently asked questions about books to read about travel.

Who are the best travel writers of all time?

Some of the best travel authors of all time are the following:
* Paul Theroux
* Bill Bryson
* Dervla Murphy
* William Dalrymple
* Bruce Chatwin
* Freya Stark
* Elizabeth Gilbert
* Jack Kerouac
* Pico Iyer
* Jon Krakauer

What are the best fiction books about travel and adventure?

Some of the best fiction travel books are the following:
* The Beach by Alex Garland
* On the Road by Jack Kerouac
* Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

What are the best non fiction travel book recommendations?

Some of the best travel non fiction books are the following:
* The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
* Step by Step by Simon Reeve
* Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

What are the best adventure travel books?

Some of the best adventure travel stories are the following:
* Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer
* In a Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson
* Wild by Cheryl Strayed

What are the best world travel books that have been published recently?

Some of the best new travel books are the following:
* Winter Pasture: One Woman’s Journey with China’s Kazakh Herders by Li Juan
* An Indian Among Los Indígenas: A Native Travel Memoir by Ursula Pike
* Islands of Abandonment by Cal Flyn

What are the best travel biographies?

Some of the best travel memoirs of all time are the following:
* North to Paradise: A Memoir by Ousman Umar
* Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing
* If I live Until Morning by Jean Muenchrath

What are the best Europe travel books?

Some of the best travel books for Europe are the following:
* Flights by Olga Tokarczuk
* Names for the Sea: Strangers in Iceland by Sarah Moss
* The Bridge on the Drina by Ivo Andric

What are best travel books about India?

Some of the best travel books in India are the following:
* Shantaram: A Novel by Gregory David Roberts
* City of Djinns: A Year in Delhi by William Dalrymple
* Holy Cow: An Indian Adventure by Sarah Macdonald

In Summary – The Best Books About Travel to Inspire Wanderlust

There’s something about reading books about travelling the world that just ignites the wanderlust inside of us. We can’t help but long to explore the world after reading about someone else’s adventures. The best books for travel lovers are those that really make us feel like we’ve been there, done that, and lived the life. They also inspire us to go visit far-off lands and imagine doing incredible things.

If you are looking for the best travel guide books while travelling we recommend Lonely Planet. It is still our go-to travel book to help plan all our adventures.

What is your favourite book about travel or book to travel with and why? Have you read any of our list of favourite novels about travel listed above? Have we missed any popular travel books you think we should add? Feel free to contact us on Facebook or via email and let us know!

Get Inspired: Related Blog Posts

Don’t let fear hold you back from starting your nomadic retirement adventure. If you’re still unsure if this nomadic lifestyle is right for you, read some of these inspiring Life Chapter 2 posts, or check out all of the others posts below we have written to help inspire wanderlust and to help you take that first step out the door.

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We are Peta and Jonas of Nomadic Retirement Travel, a couple in our 50’s who have been travelling the world fulltime since January 2018. We decided to minimalise belongings, and get out of the rat race early to enjoy a new lifestyle with more time for slow travel and new experiences. If you want to know more about who we are, why we choose this lifestyle and how we do it, please follow our adventures and see how you can do it too.